Nothing is more unpleasant than discovering your dog eating feces, whether their own or from another animal. This behavior, known as coprophagia in dogs, can be embarrassing for pet owners and harmful to your dog’s health. If your dog exhibits coprophagia, it’s important to act quickly to identify the cause and correct the issue before it becomes habitual.
Why Do Dogs Eat Feces?
The reasons behind coprophagia can be medical or behavioral. Identifying the exact cause is crucial to effectively treating the problem.
Medical Causes
Common medical issues linked to coprophagia include:
- Intestinal parasites
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency
- Endocrine disorders such as diabetes, hyperthyroidism, or hyperadrenocorticism
Contrary to popular belief, malnutrition is rarely the cause.
Behavioral Causes
If veterinary examinations show no medical issues, behavioral reasons might be responsible, including:
- Environmental boredom or lack of stimulation
- Fear of punishment, where dogs associate feces with punishment and attempt to hide it
- Stress or anxiety triggered by environmental factors
How to Treat Coprophagia?
Treatment varies based on the underlying cause, but here are some general strategies to help manage the behavior:
- Prevent Access to Feces
The most effective method is immediately cleaning up after your dog to eliminate access to feces.
- Make Feces Unappealing
You can add certain substances like pineapple juice or commercial products such as Aventi-CP to your dog’s food. These substances, modified by digestive enzymes, make feces taste unpleasant. A two-week treatment is recommended for optimal results. Applying Tabasco sauce directly on feces can also help, though not all dogs respond to this method.
- Increase Environmental Stimulation
For dogs suffering from boredom, enhance their environment by increasing playtime, walks, or interactive toys to keep them engaged.
Health Risks Associated with Coprophagia
Besides being unpleasant, coprophagia poses health risks for your dog, including:
- Diarrhea and vomiting
- Exposure to intestinal parasites
- Transmission of infectious diseases, especially from another animal’s feces
When Should You Consult a Veterinarian?
If your dog exhibits coprophagia, consult a veterinarian at the first signs. A thorough veterinary exam will rule out medical issues and identify the best solution to quickly correct the behavior.
Conclusion
Coprophagia, though embarrassing, is a common issue that can typically be resolved with appropriate strategies. Whether by restricting access, making feces unappealing, or addressing your dog’s behavioral needs, effective solutions exist. If in doubt, always consult your veterinarian to ensure your dog’s health and wellbeing.
